Kevin Young, Not Ryan Smith, Credited for Dybantsa Commitment
PROVO, Utah – AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1 prospect of the 2025 class, has committed to Kevin Young’s BYU Cougars, marking a historic milestone as the program’s first-ever five-star recruit. Dybantsa announced his decision on December 10, making headlines as he prepares to join BYU next season. In the current NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era, speculation surrounding his commitment included crediting Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith for his alleged involvement in the recruitment.
Smith addressed these rumors earlier today, responding to a fan by praising Young’s leadership while clarifying his lack of financial involvement in Dybantsa’s NIL deal.
“…Love the passion but FYI, can’t take credit,” Smith posted on X. “I’m not the donor here. Other than attending BYU games, I didn’t provide any money to bring AJ to BYU. The credit goes to Kevin Young, the environment at BYU, the collective alumni, and AJ himself for choosing a place where he believes he can develop best.”
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Earlier this week, Royal Blue NIL, BYU’s official NIL collective, released a statement celebrating Dybantsa’s decision.
“We are thrilled about AJ Dybantsa committing to the BYU basketball program! During his decision-making process, he emphasized seeking a family-oriented program, a coach focused on his development, and a winning culture. He found all that at BYU. Something special is happening in this program and on this campus.”
The collective also highlighted its role in supporting Dybantsa’s NIL opportunities, underscoring the broad donor network involved.
“As BYU Athletics’ official NIL collective, we are proud to contribute to AJ’s NIL deal. Our collective efforts include 875 donors across 30 states, supporting over 300 BYU athletes across 13 teams. With significant contributions from 32 alumni, BYU’s entrepreneurial DNA and unique ecosystem are unparalleled.”
Royal Blue NIL reaffirmed its commitment to BYU’s goals and mission, expressing excitement for what lies ahead.
“No official details about Dybantsa’s NIL package with BYU have been disclosed.”
Dybantsa’s addition has catapulted BYU’s 2025 recruiting class to No. 11 in the 247Sports team rankings.